This marks a significant departure from the long-standing practice of allowing devices to remain in “flight mode,” which is now officially prohibited.
New Safety Rule for Airlines and Passengers
Speaking at the National Civil Aviation Security Committee Meeting held in Abuja on Tuesday, the Director General of NCAA, Capt. Chris Najomo, stressed that the regulation was designed to enhance aviation safety and reduce risks associated with electronic interference.
“All mobile phones, I repeat, all mobile phones and other portable electronic devices should be switched off during at least the critical phases of flight on all Nigerian airlines. Switched off,” Najomo declared.
The DG instructed Nigerian air operators to update their operational manuals to reflect the new requirement and submit them for NCAA approval.
Crackdown on Unruly Passenger Behaviour
Beyond the mobile phone directive, Najomo also announced a series of strict measures aimed at curbing unruly passenger conduct, a growing concern at Nigerian airports.
“We are entering a new phase where business will no longer be as usual,” he said. “If you’re unruly, you’re unruly. The era of impunity is over.”
The NCAA, he noted, will embark on nationwide sensitization campaigns through radio, television, and other platforms to educate travelers on their responsibilities.
Emphasis on Training and Conflict Resolution
Airline operators were also directed to prioritize the training of their staff in conflict resolution. According to Najomo, failure to properly equip frontline aviation workers with these skills has worsened tensions during flight operations.
“Airlines must ensure adequate training of their staff to manage disputes professionally. We will check, and those who fail to comply will face sanctions,” he warned.
Security Preparedness and Mock Exercises
Highlighting rising security risks in the aviation sector, the NCAA boss disclosed that mock response exercises would be carried out next week in Lagos and Abuja. These drills, he explained, are intended to test the readiness of aviation security personnel and other agencies.
“Unruly acts can never be completely eliminated,” he admitted. “But what we can do is to ensure they are managed responsibly, in line with global aviation standards.”
Consumer Protection Concerns
Also speaking at the meeting, the NCAA’s Director of Consumer Protection and Public Affairs, Michael Achimugu, emphasized the importance of handling disputes through proper channels.
He pointed out that while international aviation regulators often adopt tougher enforcement measures, Nigeria’s approach remains more humane.
“This is why the Authority exists — to protect passengers’ rights,” Achimugu stated. He urged passengers to lodge complaints directly with the NCAA rather than resorting to disruptive behaviour.
Reflecting on recent high-profile cases involving celebrities and passengers, he noted that lessons had been learned across board. “Nobody involved will repeat their mistakes, but there are gaps in the system that must be urgently addressed,” he concluded.